Ever since I was a kid I was appalled at the Taste of Pop Tarts. Maybe because my mom makes real pies and jam. They taste so bland to me. The crust is completely flavorless yet has a weird greasy mouth feel. The "fruit" is like sugar on a mashed up gummy smear. Nowadays I do not crave any junk food but when I was a kid I loved Fruit Loops, Oreos, Twinkies etc. Pop Tarts always looked good and tasted bad. A waste of ice cream if you ask me.

No NY does not have California quality fast food. We only have McDonalds, Burger King and Wendys. Wendys is the best option. But in CA In-and-Out, Carl Jr and many others make awesome cheap burgers that Mickey D's does not even compare too. And I hev never been to Shake Shack, I'm sure it is delicious (if a bit overpriced) but I don't wait in crazy lines for food.

I made half a batch last night. Mine looked much smoother than your photos but yes they were delicious. I used Guittard 72% Wafers a(chopped) and Bakers Bittersweet chocolate chunks. I added vanilla. And the dough itself was amazing! Made me love cookie dough again, most times I don't even bother.

My group of 14 foodie friends is assembling from far and near for a special dinner. We would like something tasty and fun but at an affordable price, entrees from $15-30 is ideal. We have one vegetarian.

Editor's note: Philadelphia food writers Joy Manning and Tara Mataraza Desmond drop by each week with Meat Lite, which celebrates meat in moderation. Meat Lite was inspired by their book, Almost Meatless. Photograph from Justin Belcher on Flickr I am... More

Editor's note: Philadelphia food writers Joy Manning and Tara Mataraza Desmond drop by each week with Meat Lite, which celebrates meat in moderation. Meat Lite was inspired by their book, Almost Meatless. This salad is inspired by one of my... More